Alex, 30, has found himself having to alternate with Mamadou Sakho to line up alongside Thiago Silva in the centre of defence.

The Brazil international will get his first start since October 20 for Saturday's game with Rennes - thanks to Sakho's red card last weekend against Montpellier.

However, despite his lack of game time, Alex believes the rotation between the pair - to partner who he labels "the best defender in the world" - is for the good of the club.

"We live with this situation without a problem," Alex said. "Sure, everybody wants to play. But we know this alternation is important. It allows us to have rest time and avoid injuries, giving everyone a chance to be a part of the team project.

''The competition is healthy, there is no problem. I have an excellent relationship with Sakho off the pitch. He is a good guy and a very good player. His red card [in Montpellier] was unfortunate. A yellow card would be fair."

Elsewhere, Alex has backed his PSG team-mate Zlatan Ibrahimovic to win the Ballon d'Or following his four-goal performance against England on Wednesday.

"Actually, I didn't see it live," he said. "But everybody has been talking about it, especially the amazing last goal.

"I hope it can help him to win the Ballon d'Or, even if there is competition with such players as Messi or Ronaldo."